Discover the latest Australia visa fees, including base charges, additional applicant costs, and payment methods. Learn about installment fees, refunds, and key considerations before applying.
Australia Visa Fees: How Much Does an Australian Visa Cost?
Applying for an Australian visa involves multiple fees, including a base application fee, possible additional applicant charges, and other applicable costs. These fees vary depending on the visa type and whether you’re applying from within or outside Australia.
Understanding the exact costs and payment procedures can help you prepare financially and avoid unnecessary delays. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of all applicable visa charges, installment payments, additional applicant costs, and refund policies.
Overview of Australia Visa Fees
| Category | Key Details |
|---|---|
| Visa Fees | Varies based on visa type, application location (inside or outside Australia), and additional charges. |
| First Installment | Covers base application fee, additional applicant charge, and other applicable costs. |
| Second Installment | Applies to certain visa types, payable upon approval. |
| Additional Applicant Charge | Required if applying with dependents; cost varies based on age and visa category. |
| Subsequent Temporary Application Charge | Required for certain visa holders reapplying from within Australia. |
| Non-Internet Application Charge | Applies if submitting a paper application instead of using ImmiAccount. |
| Payment Methods | Visa, MasterCard, PayPal, Union Pay, or BPAY. |
| Refund Policy | No refunds for rejected visa applications; second installment not required if denied. |
| Fee Changes | Visa fees are subject to periodic updates by the Australian government. |
Key Takeaways
- Visa costs differ based on the type of visa and location of application.
- First installment is required upfront, covering the base fee and other charges.
- Second installment applies to select visa categories before final approval.
- Additional fees may apply for dependents, paper applications, or reapplications.
- No refunds are provided if the visa is denied, but second installment payments are waived in such cases.
- Payment must be made in one transaction using approved methods.
- Visa fees change regularly, so always check the latest updates.
Australia Visa Installment Charges
When applying for an Australian visa, you may be required to pay in two installments:
First Installment
The first installment is paid at the time of application and includes:
- Base application fee – the primary visa fee.
- Additional applicant charge – if applying with dependents.
- Subsequent temporary application charge – applicable for some visas.
- Non-internet application charge – if applying offline.
Second Installment
For certain visa types, a second installment is required before visa approval.
- If the visa is rejected or withdrawn, this installment is not required.
- The second installment cost varies significantly depending on the visa type.
How Much Does an Australia Visa Cost?
Below is a detailed breakdown of the base application fees for various Australian visa types:
Base Visa Fees (in AUD)
| Visa Type | Fee (Outside Australia) | Fee (Inside Australia) |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa (Subclass 600) | $145 | $370 |
| Frequent Traveller Stream (Subclass 600) | $1,085 | N/A |
| Medical Treatment Visa (Subclass 602) | Free | $320 |
| Student Visa (Subclass 500, 590) | $630 | $630 |
| Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) | $1,680 | $1,680 |
| Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417, 462) | $495 | $495 |
| Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482 – Short-Term Stream) | $1,290 | $1,290 |
| Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482 – Medium-Term Stream) | $2,690 | $2,690 |
| Skilled Work Visas (Subclass 491, 494, 189, 190) | $4,115 | $4,115 |
| Employer Nomination Scheme Visa (Subclass 186) | $4,115 | $4,115 |
| Business Innovation & Investment Visa (Subclass 188 – Significant Investor Stream) | $8,925 | $8,925 |
| Partner Visa (Subclass 309, 100, 300, 820, 801) | $7,850 | $7,850 |
| Parent Visa (Subclass 103, 804) | $4,425 | $4,425 |
Note: Fees are subject to updates by the Australian Immigration Office.
Additional Applicant Charges
When applying with dependents, additional fees apply. The costs depend on:
- Visa type
- Age of the additional applicant
- Location of application (inside or outside Australia)
Additional Fees for Dependents (in AUD)
| Visa Type | Additional Applicants (18+) | Additional Applicants (Under 18) |
|---|---|---|
| Student Visa (Subclass 500) | $470 | $155 |
| Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) | $840 | $425 |
| Skilled Work Visa (Subclass 491, 190, 189) | $2,060 | $1,030 |
| Business Innovation & Investment Visa (Subclass 188 – Significant Investor Stream) | $4,465 | $2,235 |
| Partner Visa (Subclass 309, 100, 300, 820, 801) | $3,930 | $1,965 |
| Parent Visa (Subclass 103, 804) | $2,215 | $1,110 |
Payment Methods for Australian Visa Fees
Visa payments are made through ImmiAccount using:
✔ Visa, MasterCard, American Express, JCB, Diners Club
✔ PayPal, Union Pay, BPAY
Transaction Fees:
- Visa/MasterCard: 1.40%
- American Express: 1.40%
- Diners Club: 1.99%
Important: Payments must be completed in one transaction. If using a bank transfer, notify your bank in advance to avoid rejections.
Refunds & Fee Adjustments
Will I Get a Refund if My Visa Is Denied?
❌ No refunds for rejected applications.
✔ Second installment fees are waived if the visa is denied.
What If I Pay the Wrong Amount?
- Your application will not be processed until the correct amount is submitted.
- In case you’re not sure how much you have to pay, you can verify the amount here.
Changes in Visa Charges
- Australian visa fees are reviewed annually, and adjustments may occur.
How do I pay the visa fee if I Submit a paper application?
Even if you apply in person for a visa, the Australian Immigration Authorities prefer you submit your payment online through an ImmiAccount. However, if for some reason you can’t lodge an online payment, you have to contact the nearest Australian visa office to see about other methods of payment.
For a paper application, checks and cash payments won’t be accepted.
Conclusion to Australia Visa Fees
Understanding Australia’s visa fees is crucial for a smooth application process. Whether you’re applying for tourist, work, student, or partner visas, knowing the base charges, additional applicant fees, and payment procedures helps avoid costly mistakes. Always verify the latest fee updates before submission.
FAQs
1. How often do Australian visa fees change?
Visa fees are reviewed annually and may increase based on inflation and government policy.
2. Can I pay my Australian visa fee in installments?
Some visa types require a second installment after initial approval.
3. Do I get a refund if my visa is denied?
No, but you won’t be required to pay the second installment fee if rejected.
4. Can I apply for an Australian visa without using ImmiAccount?
Yes, but paper applications incur an additional non-internet application fee.
5. Is there a separate fee for dependents?
Yes, dependents over 18 years and under 18 years have different additional charges.